Susanoo Katana (Damascus Steel)

Susanoo is one of the three children of the creator kami Izanagi, the impetuous brother of Amaterasu (sun) and Tsukuyomi (moon): he rules over the storm, the sea and turbulent waters. The most famous myth sees him defeat the eight-headed dragon Yamata-no-Orochi, from whose tail he draws the sword Kusanagi. The Susanoo Katana pays tribute to this tempestuous figure.

The Damascus steel blade (nagasa of roughly 70 cm, 58-60 HRC hardness) displays turbulent patterns reminiscent of the waves of a stormy sea. The steel layers arrange themselves in an agitated way, as if the surface itself were in motion.

The mounting carries a stormy palette: storm-blue ito over dark samegawa, a patinated iron tsuba with a dragon-tail motif (Orochi), a saya lacquered in dark navy blue with white glints (the crests of the waves), and a petrol-blue sageo. Burnished copper habaki.

A piece for lovers of Shinto mythology, a decorative piece for dramatic interiors, or a gift for those who prefer Susanoo to Amaterasu (the impetuous brother has always had his supporters). A katana that carries the force of a storm within it.